TULUM, 17 Oct
Bulat, Dyshat 'Balam' on Sounds Of Khemit
Bulat, Dyshat unveil their new record 'Balam' on Sounds Of Khemit, with a remix by Nhii. In this intricate piece, percussion pulses steadily, forward and squeezed beneath the peaks, while a top end that is neither bright nor dark adds a subtle presence. Every element is carefully balanced, with drums and harmony sharing equal space, creating an immersive, hypnotic flow.
The original version of 'Balam' weaves its way through deep, organic textures, layering rhythmic complexity with a meditative atmosphere. The Nhii Remix, however, expands the track into a more expansive soundscape, softening the edges while keeping the core rhythm intact.
Nhii also featured 'Balam' in his recent ADE Charts, placing it third out of ten, with six of the ten selections coming from Sounds Of Khemit, reinforcing the label's presence in his current sets. This release marks Bulat, Dyshat's first on the label since 'Touché' on 8 December 2023, making it a welcome return.
The label said
Sounds Of Khemit, Bandcamp about text · sourceInspired by the deep cultural traditions of Tatarstan, Dyshat’s hauntingly beautiful vocals elevate both tracks, weaving stories of introspection, freedom, and emotional struggle. Sung in the ancient Tatar language, the lyrics immerse listeners in a dreamlike atmosphere that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
"Balam" transports listeners into a world where past and present blend into an intense dream sequence. Its lyrical imagery of running through lush green meadows as a child evokes nostalgia and innocence, while the growing tension reflects the reality of fear creeping in:
"I run as a child in the lush green meadows. No other thoughts come, I don't care what lies ahead... In the dream, they catch me on the mountain, I am running from myself."
The song captures the essence of freedom intertwined with the anxiety of self-pursuit, showcasing the raw emotional power of Dyshat’s voice.
"Kup Suz" explores deeper philosophical themes, as Dyshat meditates on the nature of words and actions. Through the lyrics, "What else do I want to say? Are many words needed in this world? If you act with your heart and listen to no one, follow your own path," the track encourages listeners to trust their intuition and follow their inner voice. The minimalist production further emphasizes the depth of the message, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
Both remixes by Nhii and Matur bring a fresh energy to the originals, with Nhii’s signature melodic house style and Matur’s deep, rhythmic approach providing alternative sonic landscapes for the tracks to evolve within.
Inspiration Behind the Tracks:
Balam / Kup Suz is steeped in the rich history and storytelling traditions of the Tatar people. The Tatar language, central to these songs, adds an element of cultural preservation, paying homage to Dyshat’s roots while addressing timeless themes of freedom, self-reflection, and resilience. Through this EP, Bulat and Dyshat blend ancient influences with modern electronic sounds, crafting a sonic journey that invites listeners to explore the depths of their own inner landscapes.
www.soundsofkhemit.org